Simple Ways to Help on World Mental Health Day

If you live in Australia, you most likely know someone who has a mental illness. Perhaps it’s your mum, your brother, your best friend or maybe even yourself. This is because 1 in 5 people throughout the country suffer from mental health problems. And of the estimated 4 million people affected, few reach out for help. This is largely due to the stigma attached to mental illness, which often makes people feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit they’re suffering.

So how can we turn these statistics around?

Here at Ok To Talk, we are passionate about helping Australians find a psychologist who works for them. Our free service has helped thousands of people, but we know there is still a long way to go. That’s why, on October 10, we’re asking you to join us in shedding some light on the issue of mental illness for World Mental Health Day. There are many small but important ways you can play a role in ending this harmful stigma. This could be…

Starting a conversation about mental health with your friends or family.

Making a social media post about World Mental Health Day (you can even use the one we made)

Sharing your own personal experience with mental illness. This could be online or with someone you trust.

Asking someone who you may think is struggling whether they want to talk about their mental health.

In order to improve the mental health and happiness of Australians, we must begin by talking about it – really talking about it. Only then will we be able to help other live the happy, healthy lives they deserve.